Richard E. Grant's Whimsical Christmas Display Just Reminded Me That I Completely Forgot to Decorate My Garden This Year

I've always thrown a wreath on the front door, but the actor's festive outdoor decor shows there's so much more you can do

Image of Richard Grant in a brown blazer and white button-down with a black waistcoat, standing in front of a black background with purple text.
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Decorating for the holidays means making your home as cozy, festive, and trimmed as possible. The tree is sitting proudly in the living room, the stockings hung by the mantel, and your throw pillows have been swapped out for festive alternatives. But what about the outside of your home? I must admit I’ve never given much thought to outdoor Christmas decor beyond a wreath on the front door.

Though it might be a touch too late to make any drastic changes (I hope your decorations are all but sorted by now), Richard E. Grant’s giant outdoor baubles might have just inspired my whole scheme for next year. Or, possibly a last-minute addition if you have company coming over or have an extravagant party planned?

Either way, he recently shared a glimpse into his spirited garden, full of oversized ornaments hanging from the trees. And the result? A whimsical yet surprisingly stylish winter wonderland. It’s exaggerated, yet elegant. A Christmas decorating idea that feels right on brand for Richard E. Grant.

Now, when I think of making your backyard look Christmassy, it typically involves giant inflatable snowmen or blinding lights that your neighbors will quickly grow to hate. But Richard's idea feels way less kitsch.

I think the key to getting this look right is in the kind of baubles you choose. Oversized is definitely the quickest route to the luxurious aesthetic. Oversized Christmas baubles feel larger than life — playful, yet refined. Stick to a monochrome color scheme for added glamour, and I wouldn’t recommend going past two shades with such an extreme size.

You could also opt for varying bauble sizes and adding some sparkly options in or just outdoor Christmas lighting to make it feel more magical. Want to sneak some into your own scheme? Here's the styles I'd shop (or, at least, bag for next year).

Looking to the celebs for more inspiration? Selena Gomez’s Christmas tree is another celebrity decor moment I was dazzled by this year. We’re talking foodie bauble galore and kitschy Christmas heaven!

Olivia Wolfe
Design Writer

Olivia Wolfe is a Design Writer at Livingetc. She recently graduated from University of the Arts London, London College of Communication with a Masters Degree in Arts and Lifestyle Journalism. In her previous experience, she has worked with multiple multimedia publications in both London and the United States covering a range of culture-related topics, with an expertise in art and design. At the weekends she can be found working on her oil paintings, reading, or antique shopping at one of London's many vintage markets.